Cards, Giants have framework for Stanton deal

Earlier on Sunday, SiriusXM's Craig Mish reported that the Giants and Cardinals are "in the dark" as to whether Stanton would waive his no-trade clause and accept a deal to either team. In fact, America's heartland seems to be his last choice here. Approve a deal the Dodgers liked - for the objective of offloading Stanton's remaining $295 million contract (or as much of it as a team will accept) - or keep Stanton (and his mega contract) on the books.

If the Giants trade for Giancarlo Stanton, their fans would know he left his heart in Los Angeles. The Dodgers have not been beating down the door for Stanton. Had Stanton met without the trade framework in place, the Marlins would have risked losing leverage if Stanton agreed to one deal and not the other, according to Morosi. The Dodgers are enamored with Stanton's power, but are concerned about the luxury-tax implications of trading for him.

The, Stanton's hometown team and reportedly his preferred destination, remain on the fringes of this offseason competition for Stanton's services. the Marlins and Dodgers have remained in touch about the slugger, but there was been "no substantial progress".

The Giants have many holes to fill including the outfield, third base and the bullpen as they try to bounce back from an embarrassing 98-loss season.

Stanton, 28, has no desire to be part of a rebuilding process, which the Marlins will be entering under new ownership, featuring point man Derek Jeter. Second baseman Joe Panik has also been mentioned.